Channels that copy your name, photos or branding to pass themselves off as you can mislead your audience, damage your reputation and even be used for scams. YouTube’s impersonation policy exists for exactly this.
Impersonation or fan account?
YouTube allows fan, commentary and parody channels when they make clear they are not the real person or organisation. A channel becomes impersonation when a reasonable viewer would believe it is really you. Copied profile photos, an identical name and content presented as your official statements are strong signs.
Before you report
- Collect the channel link and screenshots of the profile and misleading videos
- Note where your photos, logo or name were copied from
- Have links to your genuine channel, website or social profiles ready
Filing the report
Use YouTube’s impersonation reporting process rather than a general report. You may be asked to verify your identity, or to show that you represent the company being impersonated. Identification is provided directly to YouTube through its form.
If the channel is running scams
If the fake channel is asking your audience for money or personal details, warn your followers through your genuine channels and mention it in your report. Scams may also break YouTube’s spam and deceptive practices policies.
After removal
Fake channels sometimes reappear under slightly different names. Our impersonation service prepares the report and evidence, and our re-upload monitoring watches for replacements.